#Industry News
A few things to know about electrochemical sensor
electrochemical sensor knowledge
First， electrochemical sensors have a PTFE film attached to the air inlet hole. On the one hand, this film can prevent water or oil from entering the sensor. Secondly, the measurement range and sensitivity of the sensor can be adjusted. A larger aperture can improve the sensitivity and resolution of the device, while a smaller aperture can increase its measuring range.
second，extreme temperatures can affect sensor lifespan. The normal operating temperature range for sensors is basically between -30°C and 50°C. Even if operated for short periods of time in an over-temperature range, only high-quality sensors can remain unaffected. Regardless of the sensor's quality, extreme conditions should be avoided. Operating outside the normal temperature range can cause a shift in the zero baseline and a delayed response, which, in severe cases, can lead to electrolyte volatilization and affect the sensor's lifetime. Low temperatures not only significantly reduce sensitivity but also delay response time and, in extreme cases, can cause the electrolyte to freeze.
Third, although the sensors are designed with a maximum load capacity, it is not recommended to use them beyond this range, especially under overloaded conditions. Excessive concentrations of detected gases can affect the chemical properties of the electrolyte and thereby impact sensor performance. With low-quality sensors, this effect can be damaging due to the low quality of the catalyst used.
Fourth, humidity has the greatest impact on sensors and is also the primary reason for repairs. Generally, when the humidity exceeds 60% RH, the electrolyte will absorb water, and in severe cases, it may leak and thus corrode the circuit. If humidity is too low, the electrolyte will dehydrate, which will extend the response time. The good thing is that both electrolyte dilution and dehydration are basically reversible processes. The sensor can be restored by placing it in a normal temperature range for 1-3 weeks without use. Manufacturers typically compare the weight of repaired sensors with their original weight upon shipment. If there is a significant change, it is assumed to be due to humidity effects. After allowing the sensor to rest for a period of time, it is then returned to the customer.
Fifth, the sensitivity of a sensor can also be affected by the operating environment, particularly by temperature and humidity. A sensor with a long response time that was originally insensitive may become more and more sensitive over the course of its life, and vice versa. This is especially true in areas where the seasons change significantly. If the installation is dry and cold, the overall performance of the sensor is very unsatisfactory, but as the weather warms up and the humidity increases, the sensor will feel better and better. Originally, the installation was very stable and well adjusted, but after a few weeks there are all kinds of problems. This is even more noticeable if installed with air conditioning or in other dry environments.
Sixth, some knowable and unknowable disturbing gases in the environment can be absorbed by the catalyst of the sensor or react with the catalyst, and these can inhibit the catalyst, damage the sensor electrodes, and destroy the sensor. Strong vibration and mechanical shock can also damage the sensor electrodes, connecting metal wires, etc., and thereby damage the sensor. For sensors, the higher the purity of the catalyst, the more sufficient it is; the better the quality of the connecting wires, the stronger and more durable they are; the stronger the hardware structure, the fewer repairs will be caused by the above reasons.
Seventh, all sensors have a storage life cycle, which means that under ideal storage conditions, the sensor's signal meets the technical specifications, but after exceeding this period, the sensor's signal may become unstable.
Eighth ,sensors with filtration functionality incorporate chemical filters on them. These organic filters are highly efficient, capable of essentially eliminating interfering gases. However, the filters themselves have a limited service life. Once they reach saturation, the impact of interfering gases intensifies, potentially leading to serious false alarms. Furthermore, the exact service life of the filters is variable and difficult to predict. Importantly, the filters are not reusable; when humidity causes them to saturate and clog their pores, their filtration efficiency declines rapidly.
